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Govt, Opposition set for delimitation duel in Parliament

New Delhi, Apr 15:The government and the Opposition are set to cross swords in the Lok Sabha on Thursday as a three-day special sitting of Parliament begins with a debate on a key Constitution amendment bill that has provisions for the women's quota law implementation and the contentious delimitation exercise. While the government is set to push The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 as a big-ticket reform, the Opposition has decided to oppose the bill due to its provisions on delimitation. Both sides are rallying support at Centre as well as in states amid concerns in the southern part of the country that a delimitation exercise under the provisions of the bill would reduce their political standing because of a better performance on population control. On the eve of the special three-day sitting of Parliament, top Opposition leaders met here at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to discuss and evolve a joint strategy on the bills brought for the implementation of the womens quota law and delimitation. Besides Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, the other leaders at the meeting included DMK's T R Baalu, the RJD's Tejashwi Yadav, Trinamool Congress's Sagarika Ghosh, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders Sanjay Raut and Arvind Sawant, and the NCP-SCP's Supriya Sule, with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav joining virtually. CPI leader Annie Raja, the CPI-M's Nilotpal Basu, AAP leader Sanjay Singh, Independent MP Kapil Sibal, the IUML's E T Mohammed Bashir and the RSP's N K Premachandran also attended the meeting, other than Congress general secretaries K C Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh. Speaking with reporters after the meeting, Kharge said the Opposition parties decided to unitedly vote against the delimitation provisions in the Constitution amendment bill in Parliament, asserting that they were not against women's reservation but opposed to the politically motivated manner in which the bill was being brought. All Opposition parties want that one-third reservation be given to women, and it be implemented based on the current Lok Sabha strength of 543 for the next general election in 2029, Ramesh told reporters after the meeting. In a post on X, Gandhi alleged that the government's proposed amendments to the Constitution constitute an attempted power grab through the use of delimitation and gerrymandering. The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha emphasised that his party would not permit southern, northeastern, northwestern, and smaller states to be treated unfairly. The government plans to bring a Constitution amendment bill, a bill on delimitation law and an enabling bill for Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir and Puducherry -- three Union territories with a legislature -- on Thursday in the Lok Sabha to fast-track implementation of the women's reservation Act of 2023. Lok Sabha seats will be increased to a maximum of 850 from the current 543 to operationalise the women's reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls following a delimitation exercise to be carried out on the basis of the last published census. According to the draft Constitution amendment bill, which will be introduced and is expected to be passed in the upcoming special sitting of Parliament, seats would also be increased in state and Union territory assemblies to accommodate 33 per cent reservation for women. Amending the Constitution requires a special majority in both Houses of Parliament: a majority of the total membership (more than 50 per cent) and a two-thirds majority of members present and voting. So if all 540 members, that are there in the House currently, are present and voting, the two-thirds majority mark would be 360. The total strength of the NDA in the Lok Sabha stands at 292, while the major Opposition parties have 233 MPs. There is discomfort and growing opposition among southern states over apprehensions that a delimitation would reduce their political weight vis-a-vis their northern counterparts. Two prominent non-BJP chief ministers from the south -- the DMK's M K Stalin (Tamil Nadu) and the Congress's A Revanth Reddy (Telangana) -- have sharpened their attack on the Centre over the issue of delimitation, with the Tamil Nadu CM warning of a massive agitation if the state was harmed and his Telangana counterpart flagging injustice. Reddy has written an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to convene an all-party meeting to deliberate on the proposed delimitation, alleging that an increase in Lok Sabha seats based on pro rata, without considering economic contribution, would lead to a distortion in the country's federal balance. Reddy has also written to his counterparts from Andhra Pradesh (Chandrababu Naidu), Karnataka (Siddaramaiah), Kerala (Pinarayi Vijayan), Puducherry (N Rangasamy) and Tamil Nadu, calling for collective engagement among southern states to ensure that their concerns are articulated effectively at the national level. The ruling NDA has also closed ranks and rallied behind the prime minister, pitching the move for early implementation of the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam' as a historic step. In a letter to the women of the country, Modi has asserted that Indian democracy will become stronger and more vibrant if elections to the Lok Sabha and the various assemblies in 2029 are held with the women's quota fully in place. Modi said that when women become active participants in policy and decision-making, the journey towards Viksit Bharat (developed India) is strengthened.

Greater Kashmir 16 Apr 2026 12:08 am

Priyank Kharge Defends Congresss Decision to Expel MLC Abdul Jabbar

Bengaluru, April 15: Karnatakas Minister for Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Rural Development, Priyank Kharge, defended the Congress partys decision to expel MLC Abdul Jabbar on Wednesday. He stated that the action was taken in the best interest of both the party and the government. Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, Kharge emphasized that no individual ... Read more Priyank Kharge Defends Congresss Decision to Expel MLC Abdul Jabbar

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 11:52 pm

A Milestone for Womens Reservation: Karnataka BJP Celebrates

Mysuru, April 15: The Vice President of the Karnataka BJP and actress stated on Wednesday that the reservation for women is not just a moment of celebration for Karnataka and India but for women worldwide. She described it as a significant decision made by the Prime Minister. While addressing the media at the BJP district ... Read more A Milestone for Womens Reservation: Karnataka BJP Celebrates

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 11:46 pm

Karnataka: Former Minister Vinay Kulkarni Found Guilty in BJP Leaders Murder Case

Bengaluru, April 15: The MP/MLA Court in Bengaluru has convicted senior Congress legislator and former minister Vinay Kulkarni in the murder case of BJP leader and district panchayat member Yogesh Gowda. After a lengthy hearing, the court directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take Kulkarni and other accused into custody. Kulkarni is identified ... Read more Karnataka: Former Minister Vinay Kulkarni Found Guilty in BJP Leaders Murder Case

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 11:22 pm

Law to introduce ballot papers notified

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 10:44 pm

CBSE results: With 98.91% results, Bengaluru region stands third

It held the same position in 2025 too

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 10:38 pm

26 of 33 gates ready, TB dam work in final stage

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 10:34 pm

Panic buying of fertilisers triggers price surge in Raichur

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 10:34 pm

Karnataka unveils Quantum Mapto lead deep-tech decade

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 9:43 pm

Karnataka to unveil GIA 2.0 at Bridge to Bengaluru in New Delhi

This yeararound80 countrieswill be represented at the event to showcase the States ecosystem

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 9:38 pm

Tree-planting approaches that generate higher ecological services are less preferred by farmers: Study

The study examines how smallholder farmers in Karnataka make decisions about planting trees on their land

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 9:31 pm

DMK-Led Alliance Poised for Two-Third Majority in Upcoming Elections, Says Shivakumar

Coimbatore, April 15: Karnatakas Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized the importance of unity among Congress, DMK, and the INDIA alliance members on Wednesday. He stated that a united coalition is essential for ensuring good governance and maintaining peace in the country. While campaigning for Congress candidate Gopinath Palaniyappan in the Erode (East) assembly constituency, ... Read more DMK-Led Alliance Poised for Two-Third Majority in Upcoming Elections, Says Shivakumar

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 9:10 pm

KLE charitable hospital saves young woman

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 8:29 pm

Karnataka High Court Denies Ban on Tiger Safari, Issues Clear Directives to State Government

Bengaluru, April 15: The Karnataka High Court has refused to impose a ban on tiger safaris in the state. The bench, led by Chief Justice Vibhus Bakhru and Justice C.M. Poonacha, directed the state government to submit a detailed affidavit clearly delineating core, buffer, and tourism zones, as well as specifying the locations where safaris ... Read more Karnataka High Court Denies Ban on Tiger Safari, Issues Clear Directives to State Government

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 8:26 pm

Priyank Kharge Defends Congress Decision on Abdul Jabbar, Emphasizes Party Unity

Bengaluru, April 15: Karnataka government minister Priyank Kharge defended the Congress partys decisions on Wednesday, asserting that the decision to expel Abdul Jabbar was entirely justified. Speaking to reporters, Kharge stated, The decisions made by the party are correct, whether regarding candidates or expenditures. No one is above the party. Everyone must adhere to the ... Read more Priyank Kharge Defends Congress Decision on Abdul Jabbar, Emphasizes Party Unity

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 8:05 pm

Auto LPG shortage returns; drivers face long queues across Bengaluru

Drivers say the situation had improved slightly following recent protests, but has deteriorated again over the past two days

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 7:55 pm

Yathindra draws line between legacy politics and JD(S) family politics

He says his father did not bring him into politics for collection of bribes as alleged by Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy, but to assist him in politics after his elder brother died

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 7:47 pm

Illegal and arbitrary SIR faces statewide protests in Karnataka

The coalition demanded that the Karnataka government take a strong stand against the SIR, called on citizens to oppose the process

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 7:45 pm

Shivamogga police book case against two

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 7:45 pm

Bengaluru court convicts Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni and 16 others in decade-old case of murder of young BJP leader in Dharwad

While the MLA has been convicted for both criminal conspiracy and murder under provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), he and Chandrashekar Indi were acquitted of the charges under the Arms Act, 1959, as the sanction for their prosecution under this law was not obtained

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 7:26 pm

Summer heat triggers water alert in Mysuru

MLC tells officials told to act fast to avert crisis

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 6:43 pm

PM Modi Inaugurates Temple in Mandya, Honors Spiritual Leader

Mandya, April 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared highlights from his recent visit to Karnataka on Wednesday. He inaugurated the Shri Guru Bhairavaikya Temple at the Sri Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana Math located in Mandya district. During his visit, the Prime Minister stated that this sacred site pays tribute to the eternal spiritual essence of the nation ... Read more PM Modi Inaugurates Temple in Mandya, Honors Spiritual Leader

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 6:30 pm

Karnataka Congress Faces Crisis as MLC Abdul Jabbar Suspended Over Anti-Party Activities

Bengaluru, April 15: The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) has taken a significant step by suspending MLC Abdul Jabbar from primary membership due to allegations of anti-party activities. The suspension order was signed by Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president D.K. Shivakumar. It stated that the action was taken with immediate effect due to ... Read more Karnataka Congress Faces Crisis as MLC Abdul Jabbar Suspended Over Anti-Party Activities

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 6:20 pm

Kurnool police return 2,402 lost and stolen phones in four recovery melas

The phones were recovered from Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and various districts of Andhra Pradesh, SP Vikrant Patil said

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 6:19 pm

Karnataka Congress MLC Suspended for Anti-Party Activities

The Congress fears its Minority leaders have dented the winning chances of its nominee in Davangere by-poll and embarked upon disciplinary steps against them

Deccan Chronicle 15 Apr 2026 5:53 pm

Karnataka Congress Leaders Praise Ram Temples Grandeur, Describe Ayodhya Visit as Emotional Experience

Mumbai, April 15: A delegation of Congress legislators from Karnataka visited Ayodhya on Wednesday, expressing admiration for the magnificent construction of the Ram Temple. They described their trip as an emotionally and spiritually enriching experience. In an interview, Karnataka Congress MLA T.B. Jayachandra stated that after having the darshan and performing rituals for Lord Ram, ... Read more Karnataka Congress Leaders Praise Ram Temples Grandeur, Describe Ayodhya Visit as Emotional Experience

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 5:35 pm

Karnataka: HC declines to ban jungle safari, seeks detailed response from state

The Karnataka High Court declined to ban tiger safaris in the state but sought a response from the government on a plea for a permanent ban, asking for details on safari zones and conservation compliance, even as operations have resumed in a phased manner at Bandipur National Park and Nagarahole National Park after a temporary suspension.

The Economic Times 15 Apr 2026 5:16 pm

Residents of Shivamogga complain of supply of contaminated water to homes

Whenever the issue was brought to the notice of the Urban Water Supply Board, residents were given a ready-made answer, which is: the water was contaminated due to the heavy rains.

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 4:45 pm

Davanagere fallout: Shivakumar suspends MLC Jabbar from Congress membership

The Karnataka Congress has announced the suspension of MLC Abdul Jabbar from its primary membership, following allegations of engaging in activities that contradict the partys interests. This disciplinary measure, tied to the recent bypoll in Davanagere South, highlights claims that Jabbar incited discontent within the Muslim community during the election period.

The Economic Times 15 Apr 2026 4:42 pm

Maharashtra to Host First Shooting League from April 17-19

Pune, April 15: Pune will host Maharashtras inaugural Shooting League (SLM) from April 17-19 at Chhatra Guj Nursing School, Amanora Park. This event marks a significant step towards systematically implementing the Shooting League of India (SLI) ecosystem at the state level. Following the successful launch of the Karnataka Shooting League, the Maharashtra edition represents the ... Read more Maharashtra to Host First Shooting League from April 17-19

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 4:25 pm

EU to soon roll out age-check app for social media where India could be looking to follow

European Union is launching an age-verification app to shield children online. India's Karnataka state has banned social media for under-16s, while Andhra Pradesh explores age tokens. Globally, countries like Australia, Denmark, and France are enacting similar restrictions.

The Economic Times 15 Apr 2026 4:13 pm

Special parliamentary session on reservation for women will offer clarity on increase in number of seats in Karnataka, says Shivamogga MP B.Y. Raghavendra

The MP maintained that there is no clarity on the increase in the number of seats in each State in the draft bill circulated among MPs

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 3:52 pm

Karnataka High Court directs State Government to strictly and faithfully implement menstrual leave policy

Justice M. Nagaprasanna passed the order on a petition filed by 41-year-old Chandravva Hanumant Gokavi, a hotel worker in Mudalgi of Gokak taluk in Belagavi district

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 3:48 pm

DMK-Congress alliance strong, will secure two-third majority in Tamil Nadu election: Karnataka Deputy CM

He cautioned the youth and women against being influenced by rhetoric, remarking that cinema dialogues last only for a day, and claimed that only the Congress and the DMK could ensure welfare and development.

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 3:23 pm

Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy hails Adichunchanagiri seers legacy of service

He noted that the late seer had worked extensively for the upliftment of the poor by providing access to education, shelter, and healthcare, and had taken quality medical services to rural areas, benefiting underprivileged communities

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 3:22 pm

PM Narendra Modi outlines nine-point agenda for Viksit Karnataka, Viksit Bharat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined a nine-point citizen-led development agenda for Viksit Karnataka and Viksit Bharat at the Sri Aadichunchanagiri Mutt. He urged water conservation, supporting local industries, natural farming, and incorporating yoga and service into daily life for collective progress.

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 3:02 pm

MLC Abdul Jabbar suspended by Karnataka Congress for anti-party activity

Karnataka Congress has suspended Member of Legislative Council Abdul Jabbar for alleged anti-party activities during the Davanagere South by-election. Jabbar, who sought a ticket to become an MLA but was overlooked in favor of Samarth Shamanur Mallikarjuna, is accused of supporting other candidates. The suspension was ordered by state president and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 2:19 pm

Gold loans soar in India, but its southern households leading the charge

Gold loans in India have surged fourfold since March 2022, becoming the second-largest retail credit segment. Southern states, led by Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, continue to dominate originations, accounting for over half the market. While the south remains the core, emerging regions like Uttar Pradesh are showing significant growth from a lower base.

The Economic Times 15 Apr 2026 1:59 pm

Davanagere bypoll: MLC Abdul Jabbar suspended from Congress for anti-party activity

Earlier, MLC Naseer Ahmed was sacked from the post of political secretary to the CM for the same reason

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 1:35 pm

PM Modi Inaugurates Sri Guru Bhairavaikya Mandira In Karnataka's Mandya

PM Modi will also jointly release the book titled Saundarya Lahari and Shiva Mahimna Stotram along with former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda Ji.

Deccan Chronicle 15 Apr 2026 1:29 pm

PM Modi appeals to people to take nine pledges on health, conservation of nature, service, others

Mandya (Karnataka), Apr 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday appealed to people to take nine collective pledges, ranging from water conservation, natural farming, to fitness and service, to realise a developed Karnataka and a developed India. Listing his priorities, Modi said his first request is about water conservation and better water management, followed by appeals for tree plantation under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (One tree in the name of mother) campaign, cleanliness in public and religious places, [] The post PM Modi appeals to people to take nine pledges on health, conservation of nature, service, others appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 15 Apr 2026 1:19 pm

PM Narendra Modi urges citizens to take nine pledges for developed India

Speaking at the prestigious Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana Math in Mandya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on the citizens of Karnataka to embrace nine transformative pledges for a brighter future. His vision encompasses essential themes such as water conservation, local product advocacy, and the power of domestic tourism.

The Economic Times 15 Apr 2026 1:15 pm

PM inaugurates Sri Guru Bhairavaikya Mandir in Adichunchanagiri Mutt in Mandya

The memorial is constructed in the traditional Dravidian architectural style

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 11:46 am

PM Modi arrives in Karnataka, receives warm welcome from CM Siddaramaiah

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bengaluru, where he was received by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. During the visit, the CM submitted a memorandum highlighting key state issues. Modi is scheduled to travel to Adichunchanagiri Math in Mandya district to inaugurate the Sri Guru Bhairavaikya Mandir

Mid Day 15 Apr 2026 11:29 am

PM arrives at HAL airport in Bengaluru

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is heading to theAdichunchanagiriMutt in Nagamangala taluk ofMandyadistrict

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 11:19 am

Karnataka Woman Elopes With Lover, Her In-Laws Poison Her, Burn Body: Cops

Satyavva Helavar was reported missing. It emerged that Satyavva eloped with Krishna Patil, with whom she was in an extramarital relationship

NDTV 15 Apr 2026 10:42 am

Resident complaint snowballs into civic issue; GBA notice ignored, no action on ground

A Koramangala resident's complaint about an EV battery firm's R&D operations in a residential building has escalated into a civic issue. Despite authorities issuing notices for unauthorized commercial activity, noise, and air pollution, the firm has failed to comply. The Greater Bengaluru Authority is now planning stricter action after verifying the extent of violations.

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 10:33 am

Why the Shri Guru Bhairavaikya Temple in Karnataka is Special: PM Modis Upcoming Inauguration

Mysuru, April 15: The Shri Guru Bhairavaikya Temple, located in the Mandya district of Karnataka, is currently in the spotlight as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate it. However, this temple is noteworthy not only because of the inauguration by the Prime Minister but also due to the rich history and heritage it ... Read more Why the Shri Guru Bhairavaikya Temple in Karnataka is Special: PM Modis Upcoming Inauguration

Morningstar 15 Apr 2026 9:30 am

Koppals semi-arid landscape emerges as key wildlife refuge, study urges rethink of conservation and wasteland classification

Open natural ecosystems, low-intensityrainfed farmingand pastoralismhave been key to sustaining species such as striped hyena, sloth bear, blackbuck, and Indian Grey Wolf

The Hindu 15 Apr 2026 9:04 am

Siddaramaiah sacks his political secy, pulls up Zameer

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 6:24 am

IMD forecasts hot and humid weather conditions over Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Kerala - News On AIR

IMD forecasts hot and humid weather conditions over Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Kerala News On AIR

Google News 15 Apr 2026 3:33 am

Hydro ganja worth Rs 9.1 crore seized at Bengaluru airport

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 2:29 am

Man, woman friend arrested for Bengaluru burglary

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 2:28 am

'Won't prepare breakfast tomorrow': Bengaluru woman smothers 13-year-old daughter, dies by suicide

A Bengaluru homemaker tragically smothered her 13-year-old daughter before taking her own life. The devastating discovery was made by the husband's brother after repeated calls went unanswered. Preliminary findings suggest the mother, reportedly suffering from depression, used a pillow on her daughter before hanging herself. The family had dined out the previous evening.

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 1:46 am

Karnatakas reservoirs at 43% but summer stress builds

The Times of India 15 Apr 2026 12:42 am